Marlin Peter Slesser

M. Peter Slesser, 80, of Ephrata, passed away peacefully Monday, February 2, 2026 at 3:30 am at Berks Heim Nursing and Rehabilitation. He was the husband of Diane E. (Hatz) Slesser. Born in West Donegal Township, Mr. Slesser was the son of the late Marlin H. Slesser and Rachel M. (Landis) Forwood. He was employed as a salesman for AA Electric and Carquest Auto Parts until his retirement. In addition to his wife, Mr. Slesser is survived by his children Deserie L. Herman wife of Paul Herman of New Providence, PA; Peter B. Slesser spouse of Kevin S. Goeltz of Shillington, PA; his step-daughter Melissa D. Weatherholtz; and his granddaughter Jordyn L. Constein wife of Aaron Constein. He is also survived by his siblings Pam Martin wife of Randy Martin; Hob Slesser; Tony Slesser; Michael Slesser; and Linda Forwood. He was preceded in death by his siblings Patricia Hostetter; Theresia Drace; Connie Slesser and Marlene Broeckel.

Pete had an outgoing personality which complemented his career choice as a salesman. He was a true lover of coffee, including iced, hot, and Cappuccino Crunch ice cream. On the occasional evening Pete enjoyed an ice cold Crown Royal and Coke.

Pete was a self-taught mechanic who had an obsession with all types of motorized vehicles. He started riding and organizing motorcycle trials in 1968 at the Candytown Motorcycle Club. He started the vintage series in the late 1980’s. He was inducted into the District 6 Trials Hall of Fame in 2016. After destroying the cartilage in both knees riding motorcycles, he moved onto racing vehicles of the 4-wheeled variety, specifically micro-midget race cars. Following a tragic racing accident, and much to the relief of his family, Pete took to enjoying safer pursuits, particularly boating on the Chesapeake Bay, camping in his vintage motorhomes, and tinkering with his prized possession, a 1972 MGB Roadster which he has owned for nearly 40 years. He was a 30+ year member of the Lanco MG club. Pete enjoyed lifelong trips to Rehoboth Beach and Lewes DE with his family and friends.

According to Pete’s wishes, there will be no service. Donations in his name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org/pa.

Whelan Schwartz Funeral Home, 444 North 9th Street, Reading is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.whelanschwartz.com